How to calibrate the compass for Android

Google Maps is not always accurate when determining your location, but there are adjustments you can make to your Android device to improve this functionality. Here's how to calibrate your compass on Android so your position is always accurate.

Note : The instructions below are for users with Android smartphones or tablets only.

How to check location in Google Maps for Android

Before calibrating the compass, first check to see if your position and direction are being accurately monitored by your Android device.

1. Launch the Google Maps application on a smartphone or tablet.

2. A map of the surrounding area will appear immediately, with a blue dot clearly indicating your exact location and direction.

3. If the blue dot does not appear, click Your Location , indicated by a rectangle and located in the lower right corner of the screen just above the GO icon .

4. Maps may decide you need to calibrate your compass. It will display a screen with instructions for moving the phone in an octave motion. Do so, then click Done.

How to calibrate Android GPS

If the blue dot mentioned above does not indicate a specific location or if the beam attached to it is wide or pointed in the wrong direction, then you will want to calibrate the compass on your device by following the steps below. below.

1. Return to the Google Maps application interface. If the beam attached to the blue dot is quite wide, this means that calibration may be necessary to refine the smartphone compass.

2. Hold the device face up, then move it in figure 8 a few times.

3. You can know the calibration is complete when the beam is narrower and is pointing in the correct direction.

Other tips for improving Google Maps accuracy

There are other ways you can improve the accuracy of your Android smartphone or tablet compass, such as connecting your device to a WiFi network or restarting it.

You should also make sure Google Maps is updated to the latest version.